Personal Support Associate (Part-time)

The Arc Of Southern Maryland•Annapolis, MD

11d

About The Position

The Arc Southern Chesapeake is hiring a part-time Personal Support Associate to support an individual in accessing the community, building friendships, enjoying activities, and becoming as self-sufficient as possible. Support includes transportation from employment and to appointments, sporting events, and college events around Maryland. The position is 20 hours per week, with variable hours and scheduled evenings and weekends. A Personal Support Associate may provide support at home, in recreational settings, or in the community, including personal hygiene, light housekeeping, shopping, banking, appointments, medication assistance when necessary, transportation, and social and recreational activities. The role helps individuals build self-esteem, confidence, and assertiveness and make decisions by providing guidance and support.

Requirements

At least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Ability to read and write clearly and concisely.
Valid driver's license; permits and provisional licenses are not accepted.
Good driving record with no more than two points on the license.
Reliable, safe vehicle available to transport individuals receiving services.
Ability to pass the State of Maryland-mandated criminal background check.
Proficiency with computer-based software such as Excel, Word, and Access.
Dependable, responsible, consistent, and punctual; flexible and able to take direction.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Ability and desire to build long-term, trusting, respectful relationships.
Enjoys assisting people and providing hands-on support.
Ability to work scheduled evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

Support individuals with physical and personal management needs, including health, grooming, toileting, eating, and related skill development.
Assist with household management, such as meal preparation, laundry, cleaning, and decorating, and provide transportation to promote independence.
Assist with or administer medication when certified, and support other prescribed medical treatments as needed.
Help individuals develop friendships and other relationships and participate in community and leisure activities.
Identify community-support needs and help establish community connections, working with individuals and their informal support systems.
Support individuals in planning, making informed choices, following through on responsibilities, and speaking on their own behalf.
Communicate sensitively and effectively, adapting to individuals' communication styles and explaining terminology as needed.
Maintain collaborative professional relationships with individuals and support-team members, follow ethical standards, and help implement individualized plans.
Assist or represent individuals when barriers affect their service needs, and interact with or educate community members and organizations when relevant.
Identify and respond to crisis situations, contact necessary supports, monitor situations, discuss incidents with authorized staff and individuals, adjust supports, follow reporting requirements, and implement behavior plans as indicated.
Maintain accurate and timely records while observing confidentiality and ethical-practice standards.
Follow agency guidelines and incorporate sensitivity to cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender issues in daily interactions.
Attend, complete, and pass all required initial and ongoing training.
Complete other assigned tasks and demonstrate appropriate role-model behavior.